Treatment strategies for multiple myeloma based on molecular pathogenesis

Abstract

It is well documented that multiple myeloma (MM) originates in a single plasma cell transformed by chromosome 14q translocations or chromosomal hyperdiploidy and evolves with the accumulation of point mutations of driver genes and/or cytogenetic abnormalities. Furthermore, disease progression is accomplished by branching patterns of subclonal evolution from reservoir clones with a propagating potential and/or the emergence of minor clones, which already exist at premalignant stages and outcompete other clones through selective pressure mainly by therapeutic agents. Each subclone harbors novel mutations and distinct phenotypes, including drug sensitivities. Generally, mature clones are highly sensitive to proteasome inhibitors (PIs), whereas immature clones are resistant to PIs although could be eradicated by immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs). The branching evolution is a result of the fitness of different clones to the microenvironment and their evasion of immune surveillance; therefore, IMiDs are effective for MM with this pattern of evolution. In contrast, ∼20% of MM evolve neutrally in the context of strong oncogenic drivers, including high-risk IgH translocations, and are relatively resistant to IMiDs. Treatment strategies considering the genomic landscape and the pattern of clonal evolution may further improve the treatment outcome of MM.